In a significant development to strengthen Punjab’s energy infrastructure, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, alongside Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, inaugurated the Guru Amardas Thermal Power Limited (GATPL) in Goindwal on February 11, 2024. Punjab Power Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO made the announcement, signalling a new era in the state’s power generation capabilities.
Establishment and Acquisition of GATPL
The Power Minister revealed that the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) established GATPL on January 12, 2024, and completed the acquisition process by February 7, 2024. As a result, GVK Power (Goindwal Sahib) Limited has become a wholly-owned subsidiary of GATPL. Renamed as Sri Guru Amardas Thermal Power Plant, in honor of the third Sikh Guru, this thermal power plant is now under the ownership of the Punjab Government.
Impact on Tariff and Consumer Benefits
The Power Minister said that with the acquisition of GATPAL, the multiple cases filed by GVK Power (Goindwal Sahib) Limited having a liability of about Rs 3000 Crores stands extinguished, thus, the people of the state relived from the sudden tariff shocks. Additionally, the reduction in overall tariff unlocks benefits for end-consumers and improvement in the availability of power in the State of Punjab.
Strategic Coal Negotiations and Economic Benefits
Furthermore, negotiations are underway with the Union Ministry of Power to ensure the availability of coal from Pachhwara Mine for efficient and economical operation of the plant. This strategic move is expected to yield annual savings of about 300 Crores for the state. With approximately 1100 acres of land at its disposal, the Thermal Power Plant has already utilized 700 acres for project construction, with an additional 400 acres remaining unused.
Significance of GATPL Inauguration
The inauguration of GATPL exhibits a major landmark in state’s pursuit of energy self-sufficiency and accentuates the Punjab government’s commitment to providing reliable and affordable power to its residents.